Tricastin site campaigns to host new EPR2 nuclear reactors

The Tricastin nuclear site is officially campaigning to host two new EPR2 reactors as part of France's broader nuclear relaunch program. A strategic committee met in Pierrelatte on August 31, comprising state representatives, three regions (Occitanie, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, and Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur), four departments, and various economic actors. Proponents argue the site is uniquely prepared due to its existing industrial infrastructure, technical expertise, land availability, and water resources.

Tricastin is one of six sites currently competing for the next phase of the French nuclear program. The competition includes Nogent-sur-Seine, Golfech, Blayais, Creys-Malville, and Chinon. While the state aims to deploy eight additional EPR2 reactors, a maximum of four sites will be selected to host them, with a final decision expected by the end of the year. This initiative follows the 2022 announcement by President Emmanuel Macron to bolster France's nuclear capacity.